AskMen Beer Club

The Beer Club Has Nothing But Praise For This Pineapple-Infused Brew

Welcome to the AskMen Beer Club, where our beverage-loving collection of drinkers tries a new craft beer every week! We'll be rating and reviewing every brew that we're lucky enough to imbibe, so you'll know what to look out for next time you're in the bottle shop. So drink up and scroll down to see what we think!

Exit Brewing IPA

Supplied

According to the Exit Brewing website: "Aroma of stone fruit, pine and caramel. Taste explodes as the sweetness combats the bitterness. Big pithy orange rind flavours push through the dankness with a toffee sweetness."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "This IPA sure has a punch to it! Being an IPA lover myself, I’m enjoying the flavour more and more, with every sip."

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): "'Never judge a book by its cover, young master,' my butler used to tell me, and in this instance he was bang on, what? Exit Brewing’s mascot appears, don’t you know, to be a man for whom life is a constant struggle. My heart bleeds for him and the savagely geometric growth which appears to be sprouting from his buttocks. It’s enough to make one say 'dash it all, I’ll drink something with a more jolly picture gracing its tin. A smiling butterfly perhaps. A kitten riding a puppy riding a llama. A coquettish and well-endowed waitress from the Germanic regions for whom nothing would be grander than you drinking this beer.' But to do so would be to deny this pineapple-infused IPA its dues. Graphic design be damned, this – as the proletariat would say – is 'a fine brew.'”

Dylan (Sales Coordinator): "The Exit IPA is a perfectly balanced concoction. A blend of herbal hops and tropical fruit and pine are topped off with a hint of spice and a nice bitterness that lingers well."

Endeavour Citrus Pale Ale

Supplied

According to the Endeavour Brewing Co. website: "Tangerine and blood orange fruit character leap out of the glass on the first smell of this beer. This is then followed by the upfront flavour of the blood orange that has a slight sweetness to it, before the bitterness of the tangerine starts coming through with the Galaxy and Ella hops on the mid palate, creating a fruity flavour overall. The medium crystal and Munich malts also help with some sweetness and malt body to help carry the citrus flavours over the palate, with just some bitterness from the hops and tangerine bringing up the back of the taste."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "This Citrus Pale Ale is so refreshing! The fruity flavours smack you right in the mouth, in a good way! The only thing missing is the sun being out today. I’ll definitely be trying these in summer."

Jimmy (GM): "This pale ale is perfect for a HOT summer’s day! Extremely refreshing, amazingly fruity, but not overpowering in any of its elements. A balanced brew that is part beer, part Jaffa – AMAZING!"

Week 30: Southern Highlands Brewery Original American Pale Ale

Adam De Roma

According to the Southern Highlands Brewery website: "Our first Pale Ale. The Original is a “Traditional” American Pale Ale using some of the original hops that pioneered the craft beer movement in the USA in the late 70’s. Enjoy grapefruit bitterness upfront followed by tropical stone fruits that round out the flavour. Served under medium carbonation. Many breweries mess with the APA. Not us!"

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): "I generally think tasting notes fall on the purple prose side of the fence (although that may be entirely to do with just how unrefined my palate is), but in this case, “grapefruit bitterness” – as described on the side of the tin – is bang on. Delicious, but not as rich as some."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "It doesn't really come as a surprise that a beer brewed in the lavender-clad Southern Highlands of NSW is immediately floral on the nose. Thankfully, there's a hefty helping of bitterness in this American Pale Ale, crafted in Moss Vale. Championing "balanced and approachable" beers, SHB puts a huge emphasis on pairing beer with food, and personally, this bitter brew would go down a treat with a hunk of cheddar, salty olives and sourdough."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "There's been a spotty track record when it comes to reboots and remakes lately (The Predator, anyone?), which is why the "Original" - Southern Highlands Brewery's homage to the O.G. American Pale Ales of yesteryear - is so damn refreshing; they know the original formula worked, so they haven't messed with it! Take note, Hollywood. This beer is also just straight-up refreshing thanks to the fruity, pleasantly bitter taste. The perfect brew for the first sunny afternoon we've had in while."

Jimmy (GM): "A great traditional APA, with not too much hops overload and great fruit tones!"

Lee (Sales Manager): "Pleasantly subtle for an American Pale Ale, does everything you want from a Friday afternoon beer. In the words of the esteemed leader, ‘Thank you Southern Highlands Brewing, very cool!’"

Tristan (IGN Editor): "One time when I was a kid I tried making a glass of Strawberry Quik using a tin I found at the back of the kitchen pantry, well beyond its use-by date. I was strawberry sick all over the kitchen countertop. Fortunately beer brewing doesn’t seem to suffer the same perils. This pale ale from Southern Highlands Brewery has apparently been made with some of the original hops that pioneered the craft movement in the USA in the late ‘70s, and despite that, or perhaps because of it, tastes crisp and fresh and not at all like a solid, decade-old piece of sugary milk flavouring you had to shave into a glass with a bread knife. Would definitely bring a six-pack to a Sunday arvo barbecue.

Week 29: The Akasha Fire Within Amber Ale

Adam De Roma

According to the Akasha Brewing website, " Fire Within is characterised by a rich copper colour and caramel sweetness, balanced with the floral and citrus flavours from a healthy dose of classic American hops. The result is a rich smooth brew that will Ignite the taste buds."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Dan S (Commercial Director): "Akasha cranks out some great beers and although an Amber Ale may not be my favourite drop personally, this one has a lot to like about it. With a slightly meady, honey, caramel overtone balanced with a light kick of hops, this ale is hearty enough that it wouldn't feel out of place sipped by a warm fire in winter. I have to say it kept growing on me..."

Luke (IGN Editor): "Moderate carbonation makes its presence known; bold, pine taste with a bit of grapefruit about it that goes down sweet and becomes slightly sour as the flavour lingers. Plenty of character and a lot of punch."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Akasha's Fire Within has the kind of caramel sweetness you'd expect from an amber ale, with an unexpectedly smoky and dry finish. Smooth as blazes."

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "Akasha Brewing continue to amaze me with their range. I’m not usually an Amber Ale drinker, but after trying Akasha’s Freshwater Pale Ale and Tradewind Larger, I had to give this one a go. Crisp, clean, snappy and not too sweet. Very good beer, alone or with food."

Week 28: Prancing Pony Brewery's "The Zeppelin"

Adam De Roma

According to the Prancing Pony Brewery website: "First, we dream, then we make the story and then we make the beer. Like this one, juicy and hazy with lots of fruity and citrusy flavours derived from hops and pale malt only. This strong, yet refreshing NEIPA would have been served only in First Class on Zeppelin flights between Berlin and Tokyo. Pity it was not invented back then.

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Jimmy (GM): "Great beer with not too much hops overkill. Full of flavour and at 6.6% it’s definitely one that will rock you!"

Jono (Campaign Manager): "I wasn’t sure what to think of this beer with the “Bold” packaging, but found it went down a treat after a long day. Tasty hops, described as fruity and citrusy. Although I didn’t find the taste particularly big on either, would still rate the beer very highly overall."

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): “This delightful tipple harangues the palate with a rich strawberry truth before obliviating the throat and absconding throughout the body, leaving a sensation not unlike the kiss of our life-giving, life-affirming sun on a warm spring day. And if you think that description is needlessly fanciful, and, frankly, trying too hard – you should see the label of this beer. But don’t let the guy with the cello, Dali-esque moustache, pink bow tie and pink top hat turn you off. This is highly drinkable."

Week 27: 3 Ravens Tropical Pale Ale

According to the 3 Ravens Brewery website: "Crack open your beak and let this cheeky New World Pale Ale cuddle your guts with it’s pillow-like mouthfeel and tropical blanket of hops."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "If you're looking for a highly smashable fruity brewski for your next bout of cul-de-sac cricket, an easy coastal hike, or a leisurely lawn bowls session, 3 Ravens Tropical Pale Ale is your best tropical bet. It's not as complex or confident a tropical ale as our previous Beer Club contender, the Kaiju Crush, but still as bright and bubbly."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "Not sure if the brewers intentionally named their brewery after the kinda-heavy, kinda-dark, very obscure Ye Olde English folk ballad about three hungry ravens hatching an (ultimately foiled) plot to feast on the corpse of a dead knight, butif they did -- and let's be honest, they most definitely didn't -- it's a total misnomer when applied to this beer! In no way heavy or dark, the 3 Ravens Tropical Pale Ale, delivers a light, easy-drinking, summery beer experience with nary a rotting corpse in sight! I'll have three. One for each raven."

Dylan (Sales Executive): "The tropical flavours of 3 Ravens Pale blend expertly with its subtle bitterness, giving birth to a fresh and balanced beer that's both smooth and sessionable."

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): "This pale ale really doesn’t deliver on its “tropical” moniker. The flavour is thin, bitter and unexceptional. It’s perfectly drinkable - and certainly a good alternative to the grim reality of not drinking beer – but with so many incredible fruity pale ales out there this misses the mark."

Dan S (Commercial Director): "There are certain beers that have summer written all over them and this tropical pale ale fits neatly in that category. It might be slightly sweet for some tastes, but still carries a lightly hoppy kick in the tail. Great for a palate cleanser or a BBQ accompaniment, it's a tribute to the great Aussie breweries tailoring beers to suit the Australian climate. Best drunk ice cold, to really hit your refresh button."

Week 26: Hair Of The Dog XPA

Adam De Roma

According to the Old Wives Ales website, "Extra hoppy and extra dry, Hair of the dog is a pale ale that wears a size thirteen shoe. Its big tropical aroma invites you to party at Copacabana, before hints of citrus and pine give you your first clue that some seriously well-dressed flavour is about to arrive. Our debut brew, this easy drinker is friendly enough for the morning after the night before and the perfect way to begin your next tasting session."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "I'm currently sitting in the sun, having my first 'Hair of the Dog' beer, and it's a perfect way to start the weekend! The fruity tones are certainly getting me excited for summer and I think I'll be cracking a few more of these sooner rather than later."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "At once fruity and hoppy, yet dramatically dry and bitter, the Hair of the Dog XPA will throw a glass of ice water in your face, and throw you straight back into the game at 1.7 standard drinks."

Jimmy (GM): "The flavours and aromas are immediately attractive in this solid extra pale ale. Tropical and hoppy with great balance; pale-golden in colour, it’s a beer that is easily enjoyed! Although I doubt having one as a hair of the dog is recommended at 5.8% alc/vol! (or then again, maybe it is.)"

Jono (Campaign Manager): "This beer is definitely Extra. Would not have this as a morning Hair of the Dog beer. Strong flavours, maybe a bit too strong. Hops are bitter and a bit piney for me."

Vinessa (Sales Coordinator): "Great beer – fruity, just the way I like it."

Week 25: Seabass Mediterranean Lager

Adam De Roma

According to the Yulli's Brews website, "Seabass Mediterranean Lager is a light, dry and clean unfiltered lager. Pouring a pale straw colour, the beer presents subtle spicy & floral flavours from NZ Motueka hops, supported by all Australian barley & wheat. Seabass is the ultimate refresher for any occasion, and is best served with most foods but supports light citrus flavours, salty cheeses and fried foods particularly well."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Dan S (Commercial Director): "This beer doesn't shout at you, it whispers sweet nothings to your tongue. Understated, not overly hoppy or domineering, it's more of a quiet but reliable friend. It's a very relaxed drink with a nice feel to it on the palate and a pleasant glow to the taste. It may not knock your socks off with its uniqueness or powerful flavour, but you are unlikely to be disappointed. Try it. Yullikeit."

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "This is one tasty lager! It's my first time trying this beer and I'm enjoying it. It's light, yet it has a lot of flavour. The creative design work on the actual can itself gets two thumbs up from me. Eager to try the rest of the Yulli's Brew range."

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): "Crisp, sibilant and life-affirming. But enough about the noise this beer made when I cracked the tin - the insides are almost as good. This is light and refreshing, and makes for a nice change of pace from my usual diet of American-style pale ales. Whoever came up with the mannerism on the label is a genius too."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "The can art on the Seabass Mediterranean Lager depicts a man in a very relaxed, 'what me worry?'-type pose, which is exactly how I feel when I drink this beer: relaxed, trouble-free, could probably do with a shave... It's quite mellow and smooth; the perfect beer to sink into while the sun sets. I've also read somewhere - possibly on AskMen.com - that adhering to a "Mediterranean diet" will help you live longer. If that includes this beer, I'm in."

Ben (Tech Account Manager): "It's my birthday and the team gave me birthday donuts. Not many beers go well with donuts but this one does. Happy birthday to me!"

Week 24: Fury & Son Pale Ale

Adam De Roma

According to the Fury & Son website, "An American style Pale Ale, bursting with citrus and passion fruit aromas floating above malty caramel notes. A noticeable yet subtle sweetness accompanies the malt and juicy hop characters followed by a crisp and dry bitterness that ties all the flavours together. This beer is both full flavoured and easily sessionable."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "The Fury & Son Pale Ale has a nice range of flavours. You can certainly taste the passion fruit and hint of caramel, which is quite pleasant! It’s not too heavy and it’s refreshing. Only thing to do now is to try this beer again in summer."

Jimmy (GM): "“Closing the week with a refreshing Pale Ale cannot be better! Fury & Son have delivered on this in spades with a refreshingly tasty, 5.2% ABV that finishes with a firm bitterness.”

Jono (Campaign Manager): "A polite beer – doesn’t smack you in the face with any overpowering flavours, but ties in a nice collection of malt and fruit tastes. Like the labelling and the bottles too – inoffensive. Well balanced beer, would drink again."

Vinessa (Sales Coordinator): "A beautiful and flavoursome Pale Ale. Fury & Son is definitely making the list of enjoyable Pale Ale’s I’ve had in my 22 years of living."

Week 23: Hawkesbury Brewing Pacific Ale

According to the Hawkesbury Brewing Co website, "Pacifica hops added late in the brewing process deliver strong citrus and mandarin notes. A clean and bitter finish."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "Today is a somber day, not just because it's my last day working at this fine establishment. But because it is the last time I will get to participate in what has quickly become the highlight of my week. The AskMen Beer Review. Today's beer, the Hawkesbury Pacific Ale has proved to be a fine send off. After o̶n̶e̶ t̶w̶o̶ three of these delicious brews, the only thing I can feel is pride. Pride that my fellow man could be responsible for creating such a magnificent beverage. Washed away is the sadness of a closing chapter, and instead I revel in the swathe of opportunities that lay before us. Keep drinking beer, and keep being excellent. Hawkesbury Pacific Ale makes it easy to do both. The End."

Cam (IGN Editor-In-Chief): "Here at the AskMen Beer Club we pride ourselves on striving for a certain editorial standard. On delivering only the most accurate of quaffability appraisals, based upon palates honed by years of journalistic excellence (aka heavy drinking). Some of you may feel that we’ve been shy of that standard over the last few weeks, thanks – in sole part – to the insensible ramblings of our office guttersnipe, whose turgid filth you can find even on this very page. Well, I promise to you that as of next week’s edition this will cease to be the case. Why? Because I’m going to unplug Jamie’s computer. We’ll miss you Jonty! P.S. This beer is excellent – light and refreshing like other pacific ales, but with an alluring hint of apricot that gives it additional body."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Brewing crisp, clean, bitter beer in the Hawkesbury is one heck of a life goal. Seriously, sign me up, Hawkesbury Brewing Co. Fruity and bitter, floral and dry, their Pacific Ale is highly sessionable and would go down a treat lazily cruising along a river, or at the end of a hike. Hell, even sitting on this hypothetical porch I'm ranting from."

Jimmy (GM): "I am a big fan of Pacific Ales and this is one of, if not the best, I’ve tried. Light and crisp with balanced fruit tones, the mandarin notes come to the fore as it refreshingly satisfies your thirst. Certainly a session-able beer, especially as we enter the warmer months."

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "This is one refreshing beer! It has real tropical flavour and every time I have a sip, I picture myself sitting on a beach in Hawaii (or Manly). The team at Hawkesbury Brewing have a winner on their hands here and I'll be grabbing some of these in summer."

Johnny (Mashable Web Culture Reporter): "You know when people joke about craft beer just being a mix between regular beer and a can of Pasito? It really rings true in this one. Lots of tropical notes, mild bitterness, a great drop if you're not really up for a "beer beer.""

Week 22: Barossa Valley Brewing's Chocolate Coffee Stout

Adam De Roma

According to Barossa Valley Brewing's website, "This seductive stout will make even the most hardy of warrior weak at the knees. Flavoured with Peruvian cocoa nibs and Barossa roasted coffee, this heavyweight will beat you into a smooth, sexy, submission… no matter how frigid your tastebuds."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "Chocolate, coffee, and stout beer. Arguably three of the finest things in life. Now harmoniously brought together in a magnificent beer from Barossa Valley Brewing. It delivers exactly to expectations, providing a rich aftertaste of coffee and chocolate paired with a smooth stout. At 7% it's on the stronger side so may not fare well in a Sunday session, but would go down a treat with your dessert after a long day in the office writing beer reviews."

Cam (IGN Editor-In-Chief): "In spite of my natural inclination to disagree with the tosh that routinely spews forth from Jonty’s mouth, in this instance, I found myself nodding along while listening to him dictate his review to Jonathan (his gentleman’s personal gentleman), thinking “maybe he’s not such a daft, air-headed twit after all?” This feeling, my colleagues tell me, is as close to respect for young Jonty as I’m likely to get, and as a result, you might say I’ve been stirred to my depths. Well done, Jonty, and well done to the fine men and women whose pursuit of alcoholic excellence has allowed me to look upon my fellow man with less of a snoot and a sneer, and more a brotherly love, what?"

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "I'm not often one for coffee flavoured beverages that aren't the real stuff, but Barossa Valley Brewing's Chocolate Coffee Stout is no tiramisu milkshake. Kind of like the beer equivalent of Central Coast coffee liqueur Mr Black, this chocolatey dessert of a beverage goes down a treat. But don't rush it, it's a hefty 7 percent in a squat little tinnie."

Johnny (Mashable Web Culture Reporter): "Something like this is not usually my cup of tea, or coffee in this case, but the Chocolate Coffee Stout is indeed very bold as promised. I'd say it's something that you'd want to sit on for awhile and savour the richness of it all, if you can handle it."

Elliot (Campaign Manager): "This beer certainly separates itself from the usual offerings, with big bold flavours. On a first taste, the coffee tones are a little overwhelming but still proves to be refreshing overall."

Lee (Sales Manager): "The perfect 3pm office desk beer, for when you want to get caffeinated and casually boozed at the same time. A safe-for-work beer that your boss would practically want you to drink."

Week 21: Wayward Brewing Slapshot Black IPA

Adam De Roma

According to Wayward Brewing, "The SlapshotBlack IPA is a traditional hop forward American IPA brewed with dark roasted malts. These bold malt flavours of caramel and cacao balance perfectly with the citrus-fruit and pine hop character, to give a smooth and rounded finish."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "I didn't know what to expect with this beer, but I'm glad I tried it! At first glance, it looked like it would be a heavy bevvy, but it's far from it. It has a great mix of flavour and it's easy to drink."

Tristan (IGN Editor): "This Slapshot might be Wayward, but somehow this Black IPA still manages to be bang on target. Richer than Wayne Gretzky and smoother than the ice in the wake of a Zamboni, this drop deserves to be something more than a one-timer. I could go on, but I’m Australian and only know so much about ice hockey. Tasty beer, though."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "Unlike Tristan, I'm half Canadian, so I'm supposed to know a thing or two about ice hockey. I don't - I prefer baseball - but a quick Google search informs me that in ice hockey, the slapshot is one of those all-or-nothing plays; very hard to pull off, but highly rewarding if executed correctly. I feel like the same could be said of a good black IPA - hard to get right, but something to stand and applaud if somehow carried out. The Slapshot has done just that; attempted something risky in order to reap the ultimate reward. A very good beer; something for both sports and beer fans alike to cheer for."

Luke (IGN Editor): "Like Wayward's Oatis beer from earlier this year, Slapshot is incredibly smooth; this crew brew some of the smoothest beers I've ever tasted. The difference here is its bolder, caramel overtones. Low carbonation, pine finish. I don't know why Wayward Brewing Co. called this beer Slapshot, though. Maybe 'cause it's best served on ice? Our esky here is an overturned fridge full of ice, so that probably counts."

Dan C (IGN Video Editor): "As a fan of a good, hoppy IPA and someone who's wary of dark beers and their habit of tasting like a vegemite Ryvita akin to those made famous in my primary school lunch box, I was pleasantly surprised by the Slapshot Black IPA from Wayward Brewing Co. It's very drinkable for something that combines two beers from the heavy end of the spectrum, with sweet notes in the initial sip that give way to the familiar bitter hoppy taste of a good IPA. Slapshot definitely doesn't taste like a 6.8% beer, as evidenced by the obscene pontification in this review."

Week 20: Lord Nelson Old Admiral Dark Ale

According to the Lord Nelson Brewery website this is a "strong full bodied and malt driven serious ale with plenty of flavour."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): "If this beer were Egyptian cotton sheets, they’d be a rich chocolate colour with a thread count hitting at least 800. Smooth and luxurious, in other words."

Jono (Campaign Manager): "Drinkable for a dark beer but might be too much for some. Malty and chocolaty, with a slight bitter finish. Not my first choice but definitely enjoyable overall."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Rich, somewhat bitter, with those expected chocolate and caramel hints, the Lord Nelson's Old Admiral dark ale is a bigger, stodgier commitment than its more sessionable cornerstone, Three Sheets pale ale. And at 6.1% it's no light dessert."

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "The Lord Nelson Dark Ale is a delightfully rich drink that reminds me of a Sunday night chocolate binge. With sweet undertones and a rich aftertaste, I could happily drink this beer all night while feeling like a chocoholic and an alcoholic all at once!"

Week 19: Fred IPA

Adam De Roma

According to the Murray's Brewing Co. website: "At first glance, you might think only his mum could love him. But once you try FRED IPA, we reckon you'll fall under his spell. FRED is aggressively late hopped with a house blend of hops from the US Pacific Northwest. It has the classic US IPA hop aroma and flavour of big citrus, tropical fruit and pine notes throughout. An assertive bitterness is balanced by the sweetness of the pale, crystal and wheat malt additions. A beautiful hopped up brew to be enjoyed with smoky and spicy south US style Mexican food."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "This crisp, complicated IPA gets a thumbs up from me, as my grandfather's name was Fred. He was an indescribable legend, and though he preferred a darker, stodgier ale (a truly old fashioned gentleman, steadfast in his ways), I would have enjoyed sharing one of these piney, citrusy, smoky brews with him. Fred would have probably hated it, but I would have enjoyed watching him give it a whirl."

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "The Fred IPA has a delicious blend of hops and citrus flavour that goes down a treat. At 5.6% it's on the stronger side, but this doesn't detract from an abundance of flavour paired with a refreshing aftertaste. Could easily enjoy a whole pack of these, the only problem being I might not remember the delightful experience the next day."

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "I tried this beer a while ago, simply due to my dad's name being Fred. This is just full of flavour and always reminds me of cracking a beer with my old man. One of my favourite IPAs on the market. Definitely recommend giving this one a go."

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): "A commanding sense of palatability is delicately balanced by an impressive level of deliciousness, not to mention a frenzied note of absurdity. Its glass-based, innovative liquid delivery system was also appreciated. So long powdered booze!"

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "Aptly named; this delicious IPA dances delightfully over the tongue like a young Fred Astaire, delivers a savage punch of flavour like a young Fred Savage and, like Fred Durst in his prime (?) makes me want to keep rollin, rollin', rollin' on to another one."

Tristan (IGN Editor): "If this Murray's brewed IPA had been around in 1980, then Aussie legend Slim Dusty would probably have penned a song about how he loved to have a Fred with Duncan, likely alienating his conservative country music fan base and raising more than a few questions about his fidelity from his wife, Joy. Yet while Slim is sadly no longer around to sing its praises, the rest of us can still enjoy this delicious brew - it’s more hoppy than a one-legged rabbit on a pogo stick, with an aftertaste resembling a bittersweet symphony that won’t get you sued by The Rolling Stones."

Week 18: All Star Session IPA

According to the Australian Brewery website: "Characteristically over-the-top exhibition of American hops in a beer that’s imposing, but sessionable in the extreme."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Elliot (Campaign Manager): "Solid refreshing brew. I’m not a huge fan of overly bitter beers but this strikes a nice balance. Loving the citrus flavours too! Would happily have again."

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): "Sessioning an IPA sounds like madness, but this beer pretty much hits that nail on the head. It’s not as forceful as your average IPA, but its bitterness is well-balanced by its fruitiness. Another? Sure."

Luke (IGN Editor): "Potent hop flavour with a big uppercut of pine; moderate carbonation, dry finish. Great session drink. Very enjoyable. Seems to be named after a Smash Mouth song but I'm going to let it slide."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "This beer describes itself as 'imposing but sessionable', which is also how I'd describe most of my favourite things: heavy metal music, lengthy sci-fi novels, five-day cricket Test matches, marathon binge-watches of Keeping Up with the Kardashians... Add yourself to the list, All Star IPA, you're in good company."

Steve (Sales Executive): "At even a glance of the beer label you already know it’s going to be a strong IPA. Being quite hoppy I was confused by the “session” descriptor, but after opening my second I can see Australian Brewery’s more accurate description: “sessionable in the extreme.” Sounds about right! Two or three go down well, but I’d switch out after that."

Jono (Campaign Manager): "Surprisingly sessionable, with a decent level of hops. Lots of flavours going on, but balances them well."

Week 17: Blizzard Brewing's Who's Ros & Trevor North East Ale

Adam De Roma

According to the Blizzard Brewing Company's website: "A single malt ale crafted exclusively with freshly harvested Galaxy hops from the Rostrevor Hop Gardens. Located in the Alpine Valleys at the base of our mountaintop brewery, Rostrevor is a world class hop farm. Winner of a Bronze medal at the Australian International Beer Awards."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Ever been to Dinner Plain? First of all, it's a real place and not an enchanted evening food realm. Second, it's a small alpine holiday town in Victoria, 1550 metres above sea level, and that's where you'll find Blizzard's mountaintop brewery. The North East Ale is the exact type of brewski you'd expect from the mountains, crisp, hoppy, with a dry aftertaste — exactly what you'd be at the end of a long day hiking or skiing in the area. Or just at the end of a long rainy winter day in the city. Either way. Tops."

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "Oddly enough, the Blizzard North East Ale has proved to be a difficult review simply because it's hard to find anything wrong with it... A simple and refreshing beer, not too hoppy, not too yeasty, it seems to hit all the tones just right."

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "I really didn’t know what to expect before opening this beer, and after the first couple of tastes, it had me! The North East Ale is an easy drinking beer and It’s different to other beers that I’ve had recently. Highly recommend giving this one a go."

Dan S (Commercial Director): "It's rare to find a beer that is difficult to fault. The North East Ale hits every mark for me. It has its own character, just enough to keep you interested without being overbearing. It is super refreshing, hoppy in only the best way, and tastes like it's brewed fresh from a mountain stream. Rapidly rising to the top of my list."

Week 16: Archer Pale Ale

According to the Archer Brewing website: "Our pale is a smooth, fruity and easy drinking beer that is so balanced you won't feel any turbulence."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "The Archer Pale Ale is a great beer and it has so much flavour, without being too overbearing! I can picture having a few of these at a BBQ and I think it’d go great with a nice juicy steak!"

Dan S (Commercial Director): "The Archer is outside the realm of what you might expect from a pale ale, with a kick of hops and a slightly earthy overtone. It certainly grew on me with every passing sip. You could find yourself ready to entertain some selective beer drinkers with a few Archers at the ready."

Cam (IGN Editor-in-Chief): "Hip hops you don’t stop! This is a (rapper’s?) delight. Well-balanced and light, but with some character. A superior alternative to some of the thin, bitter pale ales doing the rounds at the moment."

Johnny (Mashable Web Culture Reporter): "It's a bit hoppier than a regular pale ale, but it's all balanced out with a smoothness that makes this very drinkable after a long while."

Week 15: Angry Man Pale Ale

Vinessa Sestoso

According to Murray Brewing Co.'s website: "Murray's Angry Man Pale Ale is a classic US pale ale. Australian, English and German malts balance the huge citrus/pine hop aroma. Strongly influenced by generous use of US Centennial and NZ Motueka hops. Angry Man has a full- bodied finish and complex character. This is well balanced with biscuity/toffee flavours from selected caramalts."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Steve (Sales Executive): "This beer is great. It’s punchy (like a kangaroo would punch), has great strong flavours AND is easy to drink. A nice balance between ‘strong dark’ and ‘light session’ beers."

Luke (IGN Editor): "Big malt note with a bit of pine about it. Really flavoursome. I actually buy this myself a bunch; I'm already a fan. I've always thought I had an Angry Man inside me, and this afternoon I do. By the end of the day I may have six in there."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Murray's Brewing's pine-edged, malty Angry Man Pale Ale suggests on the label that "it's a knock-out cold" and it would be just that, if it was easy to smash back at speed. The heftiness of the pale ale makes it a slow drinker for this lightweight, so perhaps if you're like me, keep half in the fridge."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "There are many things about this beer that scream "aggression". It's called Angry Man for one; plus the bottle art depicts a kangaroo and an old-timey boxer duking it out. It also strikes you with an aggressive malty haymaker to the senses, which is great for those who enjoy a little flavourful kick from their beer. I've wrassled two of these bad boys already and I'm about to take on a third contender. It ain't about how hard you can hit, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep drinking beer."

Week 14: Fury & Son Pilsner

Adam De Roma

According to the Fury & Son website: "A New World Pilsner, where we have taken a standard European style Pilsner, along with traditional ingredients, including Chateu de Pilsen malt and noble Spalt hops, and added Australian Melba and American Eureka hops late during fermentation to give this beer a mild stone-fruit and citrus aroma to accommodate its delicate malt balance and gentle bitterness."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Luke (IGN Editor): "Earthy, peppery flavour with a little sour fruit funk going on, mild carbonation; smooth to drink with a dry finish. The name of the brewery reminds me of my second favourite tank movie, so that's also a plus."

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "You can taste the flavours that you would expect from a Pilsner, but they don't smack you in the face and are subtle, with a nice aftertaste. Easy drinking and I had it in a chilled glass!"

Steve (Sales Executive): "This beer is great, with a little sweet hint of fruit. It’s easy to drink, with a nice mild, fruity twist, compared to straight up session beers. Taking a guess, I’d say after two or three of them it might get a bit too much though... I’ll try to find out!"

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "Fury & Son's pilsner is a refreshing and simple beer. With a nice balance of malt and hops, it's easy to drink and even easier to enjoy. Apparently named after the owner "Reno," I find it hard to believe someone who made such a tasty beer could ever be given the label 'Fury'. Unless he's furious about good beer. In which case he's done a good job."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "The Filth and the Fury may bethe title of a documentary about pioneer British punk rockers the Sex Pistols, but it could also very well be the title of a documentary about my experience drinking this delicious beer. The "Filth" in the latter scenario referring to literally every other beer I ever drank before I wrapped my lips around the neck of this Fury & Son Pilsner stubbie. It's. That. Good. Never mind the bollocks; just try this awesome brew."

Week 13: Exit Brewing Pale

Adam De Roma

According to the Exit Brewing website: "Aroma of citrus and tropical fruit. Flavours of citrus and passionfruit, with solid malt body and balanced bitterness. Finish is dry but with lingering flavour."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "Smashable with plenty of flavour. Good hop qualities (aroma, taste, bitterness), without it being too strong. It certainly has character! This beer is fresh and is easy drinking."

Dan C (IGN Video Editor): "While the artwork on the can might look like it's from Timezone in the 90s, the beer inside tastes like all my hopes and dreams from the 90s."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "To paraphrase the opening lyrics from Last Exit, the opening track to Pearl Jam's seminal 1994 album Vitalogy, "Cans opened and trashed...Look ma, watch me smash... (this beer)/No time to question... why this beer won't last/Grasp and hold on... hold tight and fast/This beer will soon be over... and I will refresh." Er, and by that I mean, I really like this beer, it's easy to drink and once it's finished, I'll grab another. Now, to paraphrase the closing lyrics of that same song, "This is (not)... This is (not)... This is (not)... My last Exit." And by that I mean, would drink again! Rock on."

Dan S (Commercial Director): "You’ve gotta love a beer that comes in a tin whose designers considered adding “ludicrous mode” and whose ingredients include “water, malt, hops, yeast and … love”. This pale ale is not too hoppy, but it is skippy, light and refreshing. Quite a mild and summery beer, not overly complex but simple and fresh. I could see this being a popular esky-filler!"

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Simultaneously fruity and dry, this tasty little '80s-looking tinnie is drinkable as blazes. You could (possibly) take on Master Control with a few of Exit Brewing's Tron-inspired, tropically-tinged American Pale Ales."

Week 12: King River Robust Fig Porter

According to the King River Brewing website: "Dark notes of coffee and chocolate on the nose though subdued and balanced in the palate with sweetness from the 40kgs of our estate figs added to the boil. The sweetness from the figs builds nicely and mellows the dark malts to create a sweet and easy drinking dark ale."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Steve (Sales Executive): "At first sip the Fig Porter hits hard with a strong, dark, rich taste which initially was a bit too much. However, three or four sips in my palate got very accustomed to the taste and it ended up being a smooth, easy-to-drink brew. Soon after, I came to the extremely disappointing realisation that the bottle was finished and now I'm trying to search for another…"

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Wait for the gloomiest winter day, locate the warmest hearth you can find, and get snug with this smooth and sweet porter. But make it your only beer — this is one rich, hefty figgy pudding, so will fill you up."

Vinessa (Sales Coordinator): "When I heard that the Fig Porter had a mixture of figs, chocolate and coffee, I have to admit, I was quite intimidated at first. But the subtle dark malts with the sweetness from the fig flavours made it a daring, utterly sweet and easily enjoyable beverage. I would definitely love to try the other ranges King River Brewing has to offer.”

Johnny (Mashable Web Culture Reporter): "Got a mate that obsesses over wine but isn't really into the beer thing? The Fig Porter is the Bacardi Breezer for the plonk snob, with dark, complex, fruity flavours that are comparable to a very mild red. Now they can have a beer too."

Ben (Tech Account Manager): "This is the kind of beer your dad would give 10-year-old you a sip of. You’d spit it out, swearing you’d never touch a beer again. Now you’re older and wiser, and you realise what a genius move it was. You also drank again and you ended up enjoying the dark Fig Porter."

Week 11: Akasha Freshwater Pale Ale

Adam De Roma

According to the Akasha Brewing Company website, "Freshwater is an American style pale ale, brewed using our favourite American hop, Cascade. The Freshwater is well balanced between the sweet biscuity malt and the thirst quenching hop flavour and crispy clean finish."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "The Freshwater Pale Ale is probably one of my favourite pale ales to date! It’s not too light and it’s not too strong. All that’s missing is a beef burger or a rack of ribs. Definitely recommend this one!"

Dan S (Commercial Director): "Akasha keeps on impressing with beers beautifully brewed for the Australian climate and palette. Freshwater Pale Ale is an easy-drinking pale ale for a summer session or a cheeky couple at lunch. The contents read: COOL, DELICIOUS BEER, which pretty much says it all! A good hint of Cascade hops gives the beer character but keeps it well balanced enough to quench any thirst under the Aussie sun. Would recommend it to a friend and enjoy a couple of Freshwaters anytime.

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "When I think of my favourite American Pales, I think of movie director Ron Howard and Billy Corgan from the Smashing Pumpkins. Now I can add the Akasha Freshwater American Pale Ale to that esteemed list. Refreshing, light, sessionable; pop Siamese Dream on the stereo and settle into a few of these."

Week 10: Red Nut from BentSpoke Brewing Co.

Adam De Roma

According to the BentSpoke Brewing Co. website, "A Red IPA with a resiny hop and caramel malt character."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Johnny (Mashable Web Culture Reporter): "For fans of flavour, flavour, flavour, the Red Nut has plenty of hops and caramel-ish bite to think about. For a beer with such bite it's surprisingly pretty drinkable, although the alcohol content is sure to get to you sooner or later."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "What a malty meal. Jimmy one of these bad boys open by pulling the whole top of the can off — it's BentSpoke’s signature and a sensory tactic that thrusts a handful of hops straight up your nostrils from the get-go. It's an unusual feature, the 360-degree top, as this strong red IPA is too hoppy and heavy to smash quickly, so your beer might get a little warm. Can recommend grabbing a beer glass for this one, as that gloriously dense deep red colour is hidden away in the tinnie."

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "The Red Nut has flavour! It's hoppy and certainly has character. Half an hour after finishing the beer, I still found myself looking at the top the can!"

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "BentSpoke brewing's "Red Nut" is a strong and flavourful beer, yet easily palatable. One tinny has left me struggling to walk in a straight line, but the light flavour has got me coming back for more. Deceptively strong but equally delicious, I could see myself stocking up on these for a loose night."

Steve (Sales Coordinator): "It’s quite a punchy beer with some pretty formidable flavours. Obviously with 7% Alc/Vol you’re going to want to enjoy it slowly, but my shout is that you WILL definitely enjoy it!"

Week 9: Bubble & Squeak New England IPA

Adam De Roma

According to the Sauce Brewing Co. website, "Our hugely popular New England IPA is now available in 500ml cans! Overloaded with late whirlpool and dry hops, this hazy tropical fruit bomb is all the rage. 6.5%"

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Cam (IGN Editor in Chief, with apologies to Kenneth Grahame, author of Wind in the Willows): "The penetrating smell of passionfruit reached the nose of Toad, and gave him the idea for a moment that perhaps life was not such a blank and desperate thing as he had imagined. A sup upon the fine brew with which he was presented confirmed his suspicions, and he gradually began to think new and inspiring thoughts: of chivalry, and poetry, of hops and IBU counts. Truly, to be alive was a fine thing."

Adam D (Senior Account Manager): "The Bubble & Squeak is just full of flavour, from the first sip to the last! This beer is zealously packed with a variety of hops."

Luke (IGN Editor): "I live for bubble and squeak. I like it better than the roast dinner the night before. In fact, I have made roast dinners expressly for enjoying the following morning, fried in a pan. As such this beer has a lot to live up to, but it holds up well. Fantastic aroma; great, clean taste. Very potent yet not too bitter. This is great stuff. A meal in a single can, though I can't drive right now."

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "Bubbble and squeak is a refreshing beer with a pleasant fruity aftertaste. It's a strong one at 6.5% - But the flavour certainly isn't affected by the high alcohol content. Not a beer you would drink every night, but an occasional treat for sure."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Well, now. There's a lot going on here. As big, hearty and full-on as its stodgy namesake meal, this complex, delicious New England IPA is not a background session beer. It's 2.6 standard drinks (which, coincidentally, is the amount of servings of B&S I could go for after a night on these tallboys)."

Week 8: Kaiju Krush! Tropical Pale Ale

According to the Kaiju Beer website, "A super-clean malt profile allows the shipload of juicy tropical fruit flavours to arrive on the desert island of your palate unhindered. And it comes in a can, so after you Krush it, you can Krush it."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "This is the ultimate beer for an offensively sunny day. We're talking bright AF. Like a fruit salad with only the Good Fruit (get bent, honeydew) the Kaiju Crush! presents and tastes like an adult juice box, but with enough crisp bitterness and malt to bring a cynical brow back down. This is a highly smashable American pale ale that deserves the exclamation point in its name."

Jimmy (GM): "An amazingly clean and crisp tropical pale that can be best enjoyed in a hammock, on a desert island (or the office deck) while krushing your highest score in Crossy Road."

Luke (IGN Editor): "Low carbonation, a decent whack of pine, clean taste, and departs leaving a bold, bitter note. A really good APA. I fully support Kaiju! calling this monster drop Krush, because it stomps most other beers into the ground."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "Once, in the midst of a bit of a... dark period in my life, I poured beer on a bowl of Fruit Loops and ate it for breakfast. It was not good. At the time I think I was hoping it would taste more like this delicious APA I just drank, and less like fruity, carbonated sadness... My point is, this beer is great and, uh, things will always get better, kids."

Week 7: Two Heads Paleface Pale Ale

Adam De Roma

According to the Two Heads Brewery website, "We spent a good part of our formative years living in Temora in Southern NSW. A trotting town, one of Temora’s most famous exports was the great harness racing horse, Paleface Adios. Known as the Temora Tornado, the white-faced chestnut was a superstar in his day winning 108 races over an incredible 9 year career. Go you good thing! Our Paleface has a unique blend of Aussie and Kiwi hops, with hints of pine and stone fruit, and tends towards a chestnut colour with a foamy white head. It's the perfect choice for a day on the punt."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Tristan (IGN Video Producer): "A wise man once said that two heads are better than one. But you know what’s better than two heads? A six-pack of Two Heads… Paleface Pale Ale, that is. Admittedly my first sip from a freshly scalped Paleface was flatter than Paris Hilton warbling through a busted autotune. However, the more I quaffed of this Bathurst-brewed ale, the Bathurstier I became for more. Five out of three stars."

Elliot (Campaign Manager): "A cool almost chestnut colour. Notes of pine certainly come through on this one and it's refreshing for sure. However I feel the higher level bitterness makes it a more acquired taste."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "This beer is named after a champion racehorse, and while I'm not a fan of horse racing, I am a fan of boat racing... the beer drinking kind of boat racing which, coincidentally, this beer is perfect for! Smooth, but just bitter enough so that you know you're consuming an adult beverage, the Paleface Pale Ale would be a great choice for your next competitive beer-drinking party game... or any other occasion that involves drinking really. Get on it."

Vinessa (Sales Coordinator): "It's a pale ale that's standard. With a bit of mild bitterness at the back end of the beer, I guess it's nothing really unique - but it does the job."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "I once had a pen pal from Temora. FACTS. Seems like the folks from Bathurst's Two Head Brewing also spent some formative years in the NSW town, and they've picked up a little history too. Apparently named for a famous Temora racehorse, the Paleface Pale Ale is exactly that: pretty pale. It's as light on its feet and fleeting as its champion namesake, so lovers of a bigger, hoppier beer may skip this round."

Week 6: Hop Splicer XPA

Adam De Roma

According to the Stockade Brewery website, "Hop Splicer presents subtle hop flavours & a slightly bitter sweet citrus hit on first sip. This XPA is straw coloured with tight carbonation with the addition of grapefruit making it a truly refreshing, easy-drinking beer."

Vinessa (Sales Coordinator): "One word. W O W. If you’re after an easy-drinking XPA with fruit and zesty undertones, this is the one. Glorifying but bitter-sweet, just like the ending of La La Land."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "One of the weirdest beers I've ever tasted, like a grapefruit soda. If I ever skateboarded as a teenager, which I certainly did not, I'd probably be into stealing this beer from my older cousin and cruising around town on a board called Dr. Grind and swigging Hop Splicer every couple of blocks."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "If the first ever sip of beer my uncle snuck me at Christmas lunch tasted as much like a fruity soft drink as this beer does, I probably would have started drinking at a much younger age. Not necessarily a good thing, but definitely a compliment. Highly quaffable, the perfect beer for a hot Australian Christmas. Love you, Uncle Mike!"

Steve (Sales Coordinator): "Remember on The Simpsons when Homer thought there was a beer called Skittlebrau? If that beer was real, I reckon it would have tasted something like this. You can taste the rainbow in every sip."

Week 5: Akasha Tradewind Lager

Lee Besser

According to the Akasha Brewing Company website, "Tradewind is a hoppy twist on a classic pale lager. Brewed using a clean German lager yeast and seamlessly paired with the passionfruit and citrus flavours of Australian Galaxy hops, we have ‘breathed’ new world life into an old world style."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Liam M (Sales Executive): "Packed full of flavour. I'm not normally a lager drinker, but this definitely is one that I could have a good night with. Really hoppy, with very clear undertones of passionfruit and citrus. In the wise words of Cosmo Kramer that this beer embodies, "Here's to feeling good all the time, eh?"

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Now this is one heck of a sessionable tinny. A hoppy, passionfruity pale lager that befits an afternoon picnic."

Steve (Sales Coordinator): 'I love this beer. It tastes crisp, as if it was brewed using pure Alaskan waters, which I originally mistakenly thought was its origin..."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "In this day and age of fake news and ball tampering (I still love you, Smithy!), it's hard to know what to believe in anymore. Which is why it's so refreshing to find a beer that gives you exactly what it says on the tin. "Contents: Cool, Delicious Beer" the Tradewind Lager promises on its packaging, and that's exactly what it delivers. Fruity, hoppy, fresh. Goes down easier than the Australian Cricket Team on a tour of South Africa."

Johnny (Mashable Web Culture Reporter): "Now this is what I want after a hard-earned thirst. A smashable, refreshing beer that still manages to be interesting with subtle, citrusy hops."

Vinessa (Sales Coordinator): "OK... First of all, don't let the whole 'tin' look throw you off. Like they say, it's all about what's on the inside... and at first gulp, you can tell a whole lot of lager-lovin' has been put into this. It's crisp and enjoyable, and while it isn't quite a favourite of mine, it's definitely something I'd grab for a typical hot Aussie day."

Dan (Commercial Director): "This one is a surprise in a can. A fresh and fairly fruity lager, great for a session in the Australian sun. The hint of citrus is not overpowering, nor is the hops too much of an assault to the taste buds. Definitely the sort of beer you could go back to for seconds. In fact, I might just go check the fridge…"

Week 4: L Yeah Hoppy Lager

Adam De Roma

According to the Pact Beer Company, "The L yeah was born out of a desire to show craft beer fans that they can enjoy lagers, and lager drinkers that they can try something new and exciting. It's a very simple recipe - a traditional European lager with a clean, crisp body and just firm enough pleasant bitterness. Where it steps out of the box is its use of a relatively new hop, Loral. It was our first ever single hop beer, and it's pretty special. It's a cross breed of American (usually fruity, tropical, or piney and always bolschy) and European noble (usually soft, quiet, floral, perfumey) hops. This cross breeding has landed the hop in a really special and unusual space. There's melon, citrus and cacao. There's subtle floral perfume. It's really special. The beer picked up a silver at this year's Australian International Beer awards."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Lee (Sales Manager): "CAN I GET AN L YEAH! Fruity and floral hops make this an absolute pleasure to drink, served ice cold. With slick retro packaging to match, Pact Beer Co.'s L YEAH lager is sure to be a crowd-pleaser."

Ben (Account Manager): "At first sip I thought this ain’t no lager... but then it went down all crisp like and I was quite satisfied. But it bamboozled me one last time with a hoppy aftertaste. What a journey."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "By adopting as its moniker the catch phrase of wrestling legend Stone Cold Steve Austin, the L Yeah is positioning itself as the brash, crisp-bodied, anti-establishment antihero of lagers. And it delivers. 'Not your dad's lager' the L Yeah proudly proclaims on the bottle, which is great because my dad's lager is Glenfiddich... It's sweet, but just bitter enough to be interesting; kind of like Snake Plissken holding a puppy."

Vinessa (Sales Coordinator): "As an occasional craft beer drinker myself, L Yeah Hoppy Lager really does it for me. A burst of fruity, citrus and mildly bitter “hopping” sensation – definitely something I’d grab every day for a moment of relaxation. Or many."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "Although this is dubbed "Not your Dad's lager" by Pact, I'd have more than a few of these with my dad. Sessionable, golden and smooth a lager as you'll find, not tasteless and tinny like the popular Australian lagers of old."

Week 3: Oatis India Pale Ale

Adam De Roma

According to the Wayward Brewing website, "Oatis India Pale Ale is an ultra-smooth IPA bursting with grapefruit, pineapple, lime zest and apricot hop, perfectly balanced by a sweet, toasted malt backbone and silky smooth oatmeal. 2 types of oats were used to create a clean malt base which lets the myriad of hops shine. Originally brewed for the GABS Festival 2015, this beer is our sous brewer's favourite."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Ben (Account Manager): "I don’t usually go for IPAs but this one is smooth as and the hops don’t kick too hard. “Breakfast of champions,” it says on the bottle. I could be tempted to start my day with this."

Johnny (Mashable Web Culture Reporter): "One of the smoothest IPAs I've ever had. Nice, fruity finish without being too syrupy like others of its ilk, and I love that it's not too bitter. I'd readily suggest this to someone who is pretty new to the IPA world."

Shannon: (Mashable Editor): "If I'm allowed to drink this IPA for breakfast, then two thumbs way up. It's not a light escapade, more of a solid bowl of porridge. I mean, if you add toasted oats to a liquid, it's a literal road to porridge. Those oats and overarching grapefruitiness offset the beer's classic IPA punchiness, but don't be fooled — it's still a hefty sip."

Luke (IGN Editor): "Moderately carbonated with a nice, malty, pineapple finish. Low bitterness and goes down really smooth. I really dig this beer; it tastes fantastic. I burped after I had one and the subsequent gas cloud in my sinuses tasted equally great. Possibly even better. I’m not sure what that means but I assume it can be only be good."

Elliot (Campaign Manager): "This Oatmeal IPA offers a defined sharpness that is balanced out beautifully by distinct fruity tones. Grapefruit and Apricot in particular come to the forefront."

Week 2: Holgate Brewhouse Norton Lager

Adam De Roma

According to the Holgate Brewhouse website, "Paul’s dad, Bernie Holgate, was an adventurer at heart. He loved riding motorcycles in the 1950's and grabbed life by the horns. Norton Lager pays tribute to Bernie and his freewheeling, risk-taking spirit. Locally grown hops transform this classic Munich Helles lager into an easy drinking Aussie classic."

Adam D (Account Manager): "This is a tasty Lager! Being a Pale Ale and IPA fan, I'm always hesitant to try a new lager. But this has flavour!"

Luke (IGN Editor): "Clean, crisp taste, with a dry flash of subtle bitterness. Maybe a bit yeasty for my preferences but not bad. Named after the brewer’s dad’s personal motorcycle, so it’s probably lucky the bloke didn’t ride a Husqvarna because that’s way harder to spell. Just kidding. Yamahahahahaha."

Jamie (AskMen Editor): "This is apparently an Aussie riff on a traditional Munich Helles lager, "hell" meaning "bright" in German. Unlike the Will Smith film Bright , this beer is exciting, refreshing and easy to swallow. Helles yes."

Steve (Sales Co-ordinator): "Although its aftertaste is a little awkward it has a very simple crisp taste and is very easy to drink. I’d buy a case if I came across it the next time I’m at a bottle shop."

Beer Club Redux Week 1: 8Bit India Pale Ale

Adam De Roma

According to the Stockade Brewery website "8BiT has aggressive hop aromas and caramel malt flavours. The big bitterness delivered with a high hop flavour is balanced by a sweet malt character. This IPA presents citrus and floral aromas on the nose and is a refresher all year round."

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Dan (Commercial Director): "Well-rounded IPA with a stand-out label. As hoppy as you would expect from a good IPA - you will enjoy it if that’s in your wheelhouse."

Adam D (Account Manager): "This beer has a magnificent blend of traditional hops and Citra, with a hint of tropical goodness. It's a very drinkable and enjoyable beer! The print on the bottle gets me in the mood to play some old school Arcade games!"

Luke (IGN Editor): "I’m not sure what this beer has to do with video games, but Stockade notes it goes great with burgers, deep-fried animals, and spicy food, and I love all of those things AND I play video games so the science checks out. Terrific, tropical aroma, delicately carbonated, and goes down nice and bitter. Very refreshing with a piney aftertaste, like licking beer off a Christmas tree. Not a criticism. Two thumbs up."

Shannon (Mashable Editor): "As far as IPAs go, this is a surprisingly sessionable one. Sweet, fruity and as fun a beer as that delightfully nostalgic label."

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "8Bit IPA is a suitably named beer as it is reminiscent of an unfinished 8Bit video game. At the start it's refreshing and enjoyable, but this quickly gives way to a bitter aftertaste which leaves you unsatisfied. People who enjoy some bitterness might really appreciate this beer, but i'll be sticking to the classics from now on."

Week 7: Boatrocker Brewery Miss Pinky

Layth Qusai

This Berliner Weisse from Victoria is very different in a lot of respects. Pouring a soft pink, the head retention is almost non-existent; in fact it pours a little more like a cider than a beer with the amount of carbonation it has. Very sweet and raspberry driven on the nose, the first sip will give a punch of honeyed berry, with a very underlying malty flavour. The length of this beer is in the sour notes, with the natural sourness of the raspberries used really coming out strongly after it is swallowed. It takes a few to get used to, but if you are looking for mid-strength there are definitely worse choices.

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Cam (IGN Senior Editor): "I can see the Miss Pinky Raspberry Berliner Weisse being refreshing on a hot day, but it’s too light for my palate – too insubstantial to be satisfying and the raspberry flavour isn’t strong enough to carry it. When I drink a fruit-driven Belgian-style beer I want it to be rich, which this isn’t."

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "Miss Pinky was a conflicting beer. The taste as it first touches your mouth instantly gives you the raspberry flavour as advertised, however as you continue to drink, the tart aftertaste sticks to your mouth, ruinning the rest of the experience. Not bad, but probably works better as a gimmick than a beer."

Luke (IGN Editor): "This is like ordering a steak and having a waitress give you a lick on the ear instead of bringing you your meal. Not exactly the worst thing that could happen, but pretty weird and definitely not what you wanted. Is this really, actually a beer? It tastes like an alcoholic sneezed in a creaming soda."

Dan (Commercial Director): "Flavoured with an unmistakable and palpable hit of raspberry, finished with a slightly acidic but enjoyable aftertaste. Would have made for a very interesting sour beer…"

Adam F (Head of Consumer and Film): "Sour, without being too soury. Really really refreshing to drink as well."

Week 6: Little Creatures Dog Days Summer Beer

Layth Qusai

Nothing takes you back to the thoughts of a boiling hot Australian summer like a Summer Ale, and the Dog Days brings that memory back in spades. Another great example of canned craft, it pours a gorgeous golden, with great creamy head retention. Quite fruity on the nose with hints of pineapple, the first sip gives you a big malty hit, with touches of passionfruit and honey. The taste lingers a tropical fruit flavour, with a little floral undertone to really add another level of complexity.

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Dan (Commercial Director): "Dog Days is a delicious tinny of hoppy delights. Full bodied with just the right hint of hops, not too little, not too much, this is the kind of Summer Ale Goldilocks would be happy to drink all year round."

Charlie (Account Manager): "To sum up Little Creatures I can only take a leaf out of Donald Trumps’ playbook… because it is so delicious, so drinkable and so satisfying that it will render you incapable of platitudes beyond simply saying, “Little Creatures has the best beer.”

Liam (Sales Executive): "This is a great summer ale. Soft and fruity, I can just imagine floating in a pool on Australia Day with a tin of this in hand, relaxing, listening to the Triple J Hottest 100."

Adam F (Head of Consumer and Film): "A delicious beer, made me feel like it's summertime in the wintertime."

Week 5: O’Brien Gluten Free Pale Ale

Layth Qusai

I would have loved to say this was a stellar beer for all my gluten intolerant and Coeliac friends. Unfortunately, I think this is as close to tasting like a beer as Pepsi is to tasting like Coca Cola. The first sip has an almost antiseptic flavour. The aroma is soft, and quite fruity; this is where the hops do shine. Unfortunately the millet used has a not-quite-malty profile, and feels thicker on the tongue than the usual. In fact it is almost thicker than some stouts. The lingering flavour has a hint of fruit, but quickly settles into an iodine flavour on the back pallet. It is good if you are gluten free and want to throw one back with some mates, but there are better gluten free alternatives out there.

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Cam (IGN Senior Editor): "If you’ve never had a gluten free beer before it can be a bit of a shock to the tastebuds, but hey, a change is as good as a holiday, right? This beer is refreshing, with real lemon-y bite. Wilde is probably my favourite gluten free beer, but this is worth a look, as is O’Brien’s lager."

Charlie (Account Manager): "I enjoyed the O’Brien pale ale, not only because I enjoy Pales, and not only because O’Brien and its fancy green label remind me of my native Ireland. Not realising it was a gluten free beer until right now as I re-read the title, I must confess I am pleasantly surprised. A very drinkable beverage with a unique and not unpleasant lingering taste. I could see how some fairer tastebuds might find the taste confronting, but personally I enjoyed the slightly different flavour."

Week 4: Australian Brewery New World Pilsner

Layth Qusai

Sometimes a Pilsner can be bland and boring, balancing on the line between a watered down Lager or a slightly hopped Corona. But not the New World Pilsner from Australian Brewing. It pours a classic golden yellow, and has great head retention. The nose has a very subtle apple aroma, with a little bit of grassiness to it. The initial flavour is balanced and slightly sweet, with a malty undertone and the bitterness of the hops lasting long after it's gone. This is a very session-able beer, which seems to get better the more you have.

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Cam (IGN Senior Editor): "There are few things as Australian as ripping a tin, but for a snob like me, the options in this country have historically been limited. No more. Welcome to the new era of craft tinnies. This is crisp, easy to drink and – in a good way - a bitter pilsner to swallow."

Jono (Campaign Manager): "Light and drinkable, just the right amount of hops."

Charlie (Account Manager): "Tastiest canned beverage this side of Coca Cola. When you get past the monumental difficulty of liberating the can from its plastic ring cap confines, you are confronted with a delicious, crisp beer. Full of flavour and very, very drinkable, this one is sure to be a hit with all enthusiasts of a fine amber brew."

Dan (Commercial Director): "The New World pilsner is a crowd favourite - summery flavours and a refreshing taste on the slightly sweeter side."

Luke (IGN Editor): "Crisp, bitter, and plenty flavoursome. Interestingly, the Australian Brewery New World Pilsner is brewed here with NZ hops, which may explain why I'm a fan. I mean, things from New Zealand are quite often just better when they're properly developed over here. That's why Crowded House did better than Split Enz."

Week 3: Burleigh Brewing Bighead No Carb Lager

Layth Qusai

To keep up with the fad of low carb beers, Burleigh Brewing decided to take it one step further with their Bighead No Carb Lager. To keep with the healthy side, there are no preservatives, no added sugar, and unfortunately no distinctive flavours either. The beer pours an extremely light golden, with a head that stays around for about a minute, so not a great retention. It smells very light on the nose, with maybe a hint of citrus but not a huge amount. The first sip is alright, with a little bit of malt, but the length definitely has a distinctive copper flavour which isn’t very enjoyable. The deeper you get in your glass, the stronger this copper flavour becomes until it is all you can taste. While all beers are worth at least attempting, this isn’t one that will be a crowd favourite at a party.

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Jimmy (GM): "Being a surfer I had high hopes for Burleigh Brewing. Whilst the Bighead was refreshing and I could certainly sink a couple after a session at Burleigh Point, no carb beers just always leave a little to be desired. Suffice to say that the Bighead definitely has enticed me to try other beers in the Burleigh Brewing range."

Luke (IGN Editor): "Apparently this beer’s fifth ingredient is ‘patience’. It probably should’ve just been carbs because I don’t know if taking them out has done it any favours. Resembles a beer going in before giving way to a sour and slightly metallic aftertaste, like licking spilt booze off your house keys."

Liam (Sales Executive): "This was one of the least favourite beers I’ve had in the last two years (that’s out of over 300).The metallic taste was really off-putting."

Jonty (Campaign Manager): "Tastes like someone liquefied my nightmares, put it in a bottle, and then tried to sell it back to me to drink. Would not recommend."

Evan (Account Manager): "Tastes like if Tooheys was mixed with sea water."

Week 2: Monteith's Black Beer

Layth Qusai

Hailing from across the trench (i.e. New Zealand) this classic Schwarzbier is brimming with flavour. Unlike other dark beers, the Black Beer is surprisingly light in colour, with notes of coffee and chocolate on the nose. The blend of five different malts gives this a big full-body mouth feel, with an almost salty caramel and biscuit flavour dominating the initial sip, followed by a lingering smoky aftertaste. At 5.2% it is a little stronger than normal lagers, but this is something that doesn’t come out; the alcohol flavour being buried beneath the blended layers of multiple hops and malts. This would be a great dessert beer with something like a black forest cake, or a nice block of milk chocolate.

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Cam (IGN Senior Editor): "Smooth, chocolatey and rich without being heavy. The Barry White of beers?"

Charlie (Account Manager): "Dark, smooth, and not overly heavy despite the richness of flavours. A delicious, if sinister taste; the undertone of forbidden desserts had before dinner!"

Luke (IGN Editor): "Tastes a lot like somebody force-fed a fistful of tiramisu through a Nutribullet and carbonated the results. Not quite convinced by the flavour but it boasts a decent aftertaste. Feels a bit like a prostate exam; not exceedingly pleasant on entry but fine enough once it's in there."

Lee (Account Manager): "Colour and past experience raised initial concerns for the Monteith's Black, but I was left pleasantly surprised. Not as heavy as first expected and sweet notes made it more enjoyable that first assumed. Still not something I could drink more than 1 or 2 of. One for the winter, perhaps."

Jono (Campaign Manager): "Surprisingly drinkable, tasty dark beer, with strong flavours all round. I'm not a dark beer drinker, but would drink this any time."

Week One: James Squire Golden Ale

Layth Qusai

The Golden Ale is known for its rich profile and sweeter, more tropical fruit flavours, and the Chancer is no different in this regard. With a subtle aroma of pineapple and grapefruit, the Chancer starts well. Upfront sweetness balances out to a lingering, not unpleasant bitterness, with softer citrus flavours marking the profile. Unlike other Golden Ales, which can be quite malt driven, the Chancer is lighter, and would pair well with either fish or a proper Italian pizza, like a margarita or a pepperoni. A great entry level craft beer before you help your friends into something a little more adventurous.

The verdict from some of the AskMen Brew Crew:

Liam (Sales Executive): "Simple little Golden Ale. Refreshing and crisp. Quite malty but still a beer you can have a few of.

Luke (IGN Editor): "Hoppy and fruity; nice ice cold. Light on the fizz so you can slam it down fast. Not that you would, of course, because that would be irresponsible, and also a possible trademark infringement."

Harry (Marketing Manager): "Tastes like the sort of beer I could have a fair few of. It’s a rather fruity beer, which I find to be rather refreshing."

Adam D (Account Manager): "The James Squire Golden Ale is a nice, bright-tasting beer. I fell in love with this beer when I went to the Crafty Squire brewery in Melbourne. Having it again this week reminded me how good this beer is. It goes well with a nice juicy steak."

Celeste (Campaign Manager): "I thought it was crisp, refreshing and easy to drink."

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